2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Review: Clean-Cut Hippie

With its handsome design and premium feel, its extensive list of creature comforts and conveniences, and confidence-inspiring safety and reliability reviews, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the ideal 4-door midsize sedan for the small American family. Though it may not be as poised as its looks suggest or as enjoyable to drive as some of its main rivals, it effectively prioritises comfort and efficiency over all else, which is quintessential for a hybrid car. Under its hood is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder motor augmented with a 270-volt lithium-ion polymer battery for a combined 192 horsepower. That force is worked through a six-speed automatic gearbox to the Sonata Hybrid sedan's front-wheel drivetrain. At a starting MSRP of around just $27,750, the 2021 Sonata Hybrid is a very enticing offer when compared to its core contenders, the Toyota Corolla, Honda Accord, and Kia Optima hybrids.

Sonata Hybrid Exterior

Dimensions

Sonata Hybrid Performance

Engine and Transmission

Powering the front-wheel drivetrain of all three trims in the Elantra Hybrid sedan lineup is a 2.0-liter inline-4 gas engine that's been hybridized with a 270-volt lithium-ion battery for a combined 192 hp. Outputs are managed solely by a 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission. This setup provides enough power for competent and reliable city driving, and throttle responses are gradual but smooth and efficiency-minded. While hybrids are not known for their trailering, the Sonata Hybrid should be able to manage at least 1000 lbs worth of towing capacity.

Sonata Hybrid Interior

Sonata Hybrid Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Sedan A Good car?

Trucks, SUVs, and crossovers may be dominating the market in the USA right now, but there are still many Americans that do admire and would prefer a traditional 4-door midsize sedan. This is likely because of cars such as the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, which prove that eco-friendly, efficiency-minded vehicles don't have to be bland and/or over-priced, but can rather be eye-catching and packed with value. Yes, the same can't be said about the driving experience it delivers, being quite sedate and leery, but the Sonata makes up for this by being impressively comfortable on the road and, of course, highly economical. If you're looking for something that drives and handles a little more enjoyably, the Honda Accord Hybrid would be a good alternative. It's not as well outfitted with features as the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid sedan at its price, however, which supplies a bit more value in terms of creature comforts, conveniences, and safety features. Put into consideration the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's safety review from the US's top authorities, and it's easy to see why it's one of the best in its class.

What Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Model Should I Buy?

If you're considering the Sonata for its eco-friendly and efficient performance as a hybrid vehicle, in particular, then you would want to go for the base-spec Blue model. It's the most fuel-efficient model in the range, though It does lose out on quite a few desirable features. If you're simply a Hyundai devotee and want to max out what you get in the Sonata, the top-spec Limited model is worth considering over the mid-spec SEL. Exclusive standard equipment includes all-LED exterior lighting and the nifty solar panel roof. It also gets the color head-up display, 10.25-inch digital driver display, 12.3-inch infotainment system touchscreen, and a bunch of other luxuries. These all come along with a selection of driver assists, including a surround-view monitor, blind-spot monitor, highway driving assist, front and rear parking sensors, and parking collision-avoidance.